Rafael Nadal is hands down one of the greatest tennis players of our time. The Spaniard has enjoyed a long and decorated career, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. With 22 Grand Slam titles in tow, Nadal is a force to be reckoned with. And that is exactly why he has been named the ’21st Century’s Most Dominant Player.’
ESPN held a poll online a while ago, where fans could vote. Rafa’s result is not surprising given his penchant for winning titles on the Clay court. So far in his career, Nadal has won the French Open 14 times! His dominance at Roland Garros has justifiably earned him the title ‘King of Clay’.
Rafael is used to challenges on the tennis court but this was a different kind of challenge. He went head-to-head with athletes from different fields, most notably Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps, both Olympic Gold medallists.
ESPN held a vote for the ‘21st Century’s Most Dominant’, in the first two decades of the Century:
🏆 Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros won, beating out Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps at the Olympics.
14 titles.… pic.twitter.com/SJSDloCG5D
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) September 12, 2023
Rafael Nadal is currently behind Novak Djokovic in the Grand Slam titles race. Nadal has 22, whereas Djokovic has 24, winning his latest at the now-concluded US Open.
While Rafa is one of the best players around, fans feel that his game can be one-sided due to his preference for clay. One fan even mocked him by calling him “Claydal.” Here are a few reactions to this news.
Claydal
— Duvido (@calem0chato) September 12, 2023
For sure the greatest clay player we’ll ever see. No way he is better than djoker though. There is more than 1 surface in tennis.
— MadridLakersMix 🇨🇦 (@lakersmadridHQ) September 12, 2023
While Rafael Nadal may be the King of Clay, he has conquered the other surfaces as well. The Spaniard’s records speak for themselves. Nadal is currently on the sidelines due to an injury but will return soon.
Rafael Nadal hints at return
The Spaniard has had a rough year due to injuries, which ruled him out for most of the season. Nadal also underwent surgery subsequently and is recuperating at present. The last major tournament he played was the Australian Open, where he bowed out in the second round.
Rafa’s uncle Toni Nadal did give an update about his recovery recently. The tennis legend is recovering well and is eyeing to return at the Australian Open next year. “Rafa is good, recovering. If all goes well he wants to return to the court for the 2024 Australian Open,” said Toni (via Eurosport).
Toni Nadal, speaking today about Rafael Nadal:
“He is training and his goal is to return to the tour at the 2024 Australian Open” 🇦🇺
Source: 🗣️ Eldesmarque pic.twitter.com/29kYfJK3IK
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) September 11, 2023
However, Spain’s Davis Cup captain, David Ferrer hinted that Nadal might play in November if they make it to the final. As of now, it is only a speculation.
Rafael Nadal has previously hinted that 2024 could be his last year on the tour. Nadal’s influence transcends tennis and has been an absolute icon of the game. He will look to go out with a bang next year.
